Rayzor vs. Boods – let’s hear it people

Post-game on the recliner here, with the shiatsu massage rollers doing their thing on my lower back. Anybody with a bad back like mine (are you reading Joe Sakic?) should spend the 80 bucks or so for the HoMedics massage pad, with the remote control, shiatsu rolling pins.

A little late-night blog (hope I don’t get in trouble) here. Nah, just a few thoughts on tonight’s superb Avs-Blackhawks game that might not have made it into the print paper (subscribe please, people, it’s imporant):
– Rayzor was tremendous. Yeah, he caught a break or two, just like he did in Nashville when the post rang thrice. But as every goalie will tell you, the posts are part of the equipment. You don’t just make 43 saves against what probably is the best, young offensive team in the league and call it a lucky win, though.
Besides, the Avs missed a couple of bunnies against the Bulin Wall, too, so it runs both ways. Talking to Rayzor after the game, he said he’s finally feeling comfortable in his own skin again, and thinks he might finally be over the mental hump of the horror that was last season in Toronto.

He said he never realized how bad he was until going through something of a re-invention process with the Avs – most notably with goalie coach Jeff Hackett, who has fast become one of the most valuable players in team history never to have played a game with the team.

Like Jose Theodore before him, Rayzor is now offering testimony for the Church of Hack. Hackett’s constant preaching of the fundamentals, on and off the ice, has gotten Rayzor to start believing in himself again, now that he’s seeing results. One thing Rayzor said was Hackett has gotten him to better his footwork – and it’s clearly better now than it was early in the season. This is a subject I should delve into more, as a reporter, with Hackett and the goalies. Moving your feet in the right way is the key to good goaltending, you hear all the time.

Tony Granato said he’ll decide tomorrow who the goalie will be for Sid the Kid and the Penguins Saturday, but I’m pretty sure it’ll be Rayzor again, based on his comments on body language after the game.

The question I have for you here is: did tonight’s performance warrant Rayzor getting the title of No. 1 goalie now? And, even if he loses Saturday and/or plays poorly and they win anyway, as has happened with a couple of his starts, does he deserve to start the next game anyway?

Or, should Boods get the next start? Was he really bad enough in some recent losses to deserve the backup role now?

A few other thoughts while the ambien kicks in (and yes, sadly folks, I have had a relapse on the ambien. But I’m only taking half a pill right now, not a full one):

– Honestly, Wojtek Wolski looks like a completelydifferent man in the locker room these days. Now that he’s a center, he looks like an emancipated man. He’s just better as a center than a winger, period, and you can see the excitement in his face right now, that he’s getting his chance to prove he can be a good one in the NHL, just like he was in junior. Wolski really wants to be a complete player, and he’s taken more pride in his defense the last year and a half than he feels he’s been given credit for. Now, he wants to be a good faceoff guy, and good defensive presence late in games. He’s eager to get better at those two things. More than anything, Wolski seems to feel like he has new plans, new goals. And, I guess, a new lease on life.

– T.J. Hensick continues to struggle a little bit. It would sure help the Burgundy and (ahem) Blue cause if No. 37 could put some points on the board and relieve some of the pressure on the top line. Because he’s small, it seems like Hensick feels he needs to rush everything before being swallowed up by the D, but often he’s rushing things too much. He just needs to relax and finish off that play that, instead, he’s rushing too quickly and failing.

– Joel Quenneville was awful mad after the game about a bad drop of a faceoff by a linesman, right before the Avs’ last power play of the night, leading to Wolski’s game-winner. Coach Q was loosing a few F-bombs to us ink-stained wretches after the game over the linesman. Sadly, I did not see the play in question.

– That Chicago team is going to be damn good. They’re already very good, but a little more veteran leadership there, maybe a bit more help on the back end, and that’s a potential Cup winner. I would be very surprised if Chicago doesn’t win a Cup in the next five years.

– That was a hilarious – shockingly so, for the Avs – piece of theater at the Pepsi Center, during the video review delay when determining Ryan Smyth’s eventual good goal in the first period. The game-night entertainment crew, whose usual idea for filling stops in play is to blast some god-awful tattoo grunge-metal music, had a funny routine where a recorded voice pretended the referees were calling some video review NHL center, complete with a “If you are calling to review a potential kicking violation, press 1…” bit. It had the crowd laughing in earnest, and even Mr. Curmudgeon myself laughed.

– Check out a new Avalanche blog – eurolanche.com – which bills itself as the “First European Avs fan club.” The director, David Puchovsky, is a major fan.

– Tyler Arnason hit the 30-game mark without a goal. And yet, Arnie just goes about his business. The guy never seems down about anything. If I was a player in a 30-game goal drought, I’d probably be half-suicidal, but Arnie just takes off his gear and tries to get ‘er done next time. Somehow, I almost admire that.

Rayzor was tremendous tonight…you can’t say enough about him. Granato needs to ride him until he has a couple bad games in a row from now on…let’s hope he does the right thing.

Wojtek Wolski looks like a man possessed at center. FINALLY he’s living up to his potential! If this is the end of the road of seeing our beloved Joe in the Burgundy and Royal Blue (pains me to say it), I for one can take solace in keeping Wolski as our second line center behind Stastny down the road. If they continue to develop, we could have potentially the best 1-2 center punch in the league for a long, long time.

Tom

Rayzor was tremendous tonight…you can’t say enough about him. Granato needs to ride him until he has a couple bad games in a row from now on…let’s hope he does the right thing.

Wojtek Wolski looks like a man possessed at center. FINALLY he’s living up to his potential! If this is the end of the road of seeing our beloved Joe in the Burgundy and Royal Blue (pains me to say it), I for one can take solace in keeping Wolski as our second line center behind Stastny down the road. If they continue to develop, we could have potentially the best 1-2 center punch in the league for a long, long time.

Thomas

I agree with you analysis Adrian.
I am glad to see Wolski at center. I am sure we are seeing the beginning of a great NHL centerman and a 1-2 punch Stastny-Wolski at center doesn’t look bad for the Avs future.
Concerning Hensick, I agee he is rushing his plays. Having a small stature probably doesn’t help me him but guys like Yzerman, Zetterberg, Draper, Hudler, Marc Savard, Chris Drury… are not giants too. Yet they have confidence in their play, they check opposing players and sometimes hit too. Maybe Hensick just has to hit the weight-room a bit more next summer and establish himself as a 5.10, 195/200 pounds center to feel more comfortable out there.

Thomas

I agree with you analysis Adrian.
I am glad to see Wolski at center. I am sure we are seeing the beginning of a great NHL centerman and a 1-2 punch Stastny-Wolski at center doesn’t look bad for the Avs future.
Concerning Hensick, I agee he is rushing his plays. Having a small stature probably doesn’t help me him but guys like Yzerman, Zetterberg, Draper, Hudler, Marc Savard, Chris Drury… are not giants too. Yet they have confidence in their play, they check opposing players and sometimes hit too. Maybe Hensick just has to hit the weight-room a bit more next summer and establish himself as a 5.10, 195/200 pounds center to feel more comfortable out there.

steve-ft wayne, IN

AD
That’s hilarious that you brought up the “skit” video that played at the Pepsi Center…while it was going on (watching it on Center Ice) my wife thought it was our home phone ringing and she started looking for the cordless!!

Did I actually see Arnie win a faceoff or 2? Wow…amazing!

You have to start Razor Saturday…no doubt about it. Go with the hot goalie and see what happens! He scares me the way he seems off balance quite a bit, ecspecailly when trying to handle the puck from time to time…but I’ll take him over Boods right now.

I love the way the team just keeps hanging in there…I loved their style of play on Thursday…it was good hockey. Keep it up boys!

Thanks for all you do AD, us Hoosiers need an “insider” to keep/get us in the “loop” of everything Avs! See ya’ in St. Louie.

Steve-Fort Wayne, IN

steve-ft wayne, IN

AD
That’s hilarious that you brought up the “skit” video that played at the Pepsi Center…while it was going on (watching it on Center Ice) my wife thought it was our home phone ringing and she started looking for the cordless!!

Did I actually see Arnie win a faceoff or 2? Wow…amazing!

You have to start Razor Saturday…no doubt about it. Go with the hot goalie and see what happens! He scares me the way he seems off balance quite a bit, ecspecailly when trying to handle the puck from time to time…but I’ll take him over Boods right now.

I love the way the team just keeps hanging in there…I loved their style of play on Thursday…it was good hockey. Keep it up boys!

Thanks for all you do AD, us Hoosiers need an “insider” to keep/get us in the “loop” of everything Avs! See ya’ in St. Louie.

Steve-Fort Wayne, IN

Jeremy

Raycroft hasn’t impressed me at all with his play. With that said (and I may be imagining things). The team as a whole does seem to put forth a better effort when he’s in net. I still believe Budaj is the better goalie. But that’s irrelevant because Raycroft is going to get the start on Saturday, which I feel is kind of sad because I think Budaj has earned the right to be the #1 goalie on this very mediocre team. His play isn’t the reason this team has floated just above the .500 mark all year.

As for Wolski…the move to center has seemed to awaken something within him. He just seems more active/aggressive out there since the switch. the question is can he keep it up for any extended period of time. It sure would be great if over the course of the season he could develop into a legitimate # 2 center behind Stastny.

Also…I hate to become the 458th official member of the “Tyler Arnason is the worst hockey player in the history of mankind” club. But could somebody explain to me why Granato continues to dress him over Guite. At least Guite works when he’s out there (& I guarntee you he wouldn’t go 30 games without a goal). The thing that’s most maddening about Arnason is that he doesn’t score, forecheck, or do much of anything. It’s that it always seems like he would rather be at a kegger than be playing hockey.

Jeremy

Raycroft hasn’t impressed me at all with his play. With that said (and I may be imagining things). The team as a whole does seem to put forth a better effort when he’s in net. I still believe Budaj is the better goalie. But that’s irrelevant because Raycroft is going to get the start on Saturday, which I feel is kind of sad because I think Budaj has earned the right to be the #1 goalie on this very mediocre team. His play isn’t the reason this team has floated just above the .500 mark all year.

As for Wolski…the move to center has seemed to awaken something within him. He just seems more active/aggressive out there since the switch. the question is can he keep it up for any extended period of time. It sure would be great if over the course of the season he could develop into a legitimate # 2 center behind Stastny.

Also…I hate to become the 458th official member of the “Tyler Arnason is the worst hockey player in the history of mankind” club. But could somebody explain to me why Granato continues to dress him over Guite. At least Guite works when he’s out there (& I guarntee you he wouldn’t go 30 games without a goal). The thing that’s most maddening about Arnason is that he doesn’t score, forecheck, or do much of anything. It’s that it always seems like he would rather be at a kegger than be playing hockey.

James

I was wondering what that noise was. I thought my damn phone was ringing, until I muted the TV and the ringing stopped.

Don’t worry, even though Arnason doesn’t have a goal in 30 games, he has 8 assists over that span, along with a -5 rating. That’s worth the 1.6 million he’s making.

James

I was wondering what that noise was. I thought my damn phone was ringing, until I muted the TV and the ringing stopped.

Don’t worry, even though Arnason doesn’t have a goal in 30 games, he has 8 assists over that span, along with a -5 rating. That’s worth the 1.6 million he’s making.

Avalangelist

Ride the Rayzor as long you can, IMO. I can’t see any reason to keep Arnason. I was at the Wild game and during the warm-ups, when they weren’t going drills, he was a skating disspiritedly between the red line and the blue line. It doesn’t sound like a guy who’s ready to compete.

I do like some of the young guys. Stewart works so hard and I hope to continue to see more of the same. However, one guy that impresses me is Phillip Dupuis. He is winning faceoffs, getting good shots and using his legs to make plays. I think he’s your fourth line center, the way he’s been playing.
If everyone gets healthy:

Smyth-Stastny-Hejduk
Stewart-Sakic- Jones (Brunette would still look good on that line)
Laperriere-Wolsk-Svatos
McLeod-Dupuis-Willsie

Avalangelist

Ride the Rayzor as long you can, IMO. I can’t see any reason to keep Arnason. I was at the Wild game and during the warm-ups, when they weren’t going drills, he was a skating disspiritedly between the red line and the blue line. It doesn’t sound like a guy who’s ready to compete.

I do like some of the young guys. Stewart works so hard and I hope to continue to see more of the same. However, one guy that impresses me is Phillip Dupuis. He is winning faceoffs, getting good shots and using his legs to make plays. I think he’s your fourth line center, the way he’s been playing.
If everyone gets healthy:

Smyth-Stastny-Hejduk
Stewart-Sakic- Jones (Brunette would still look good on that line)
Laperriere-Wolsk-Svatos
McLeod-Dupuis-Willsie

Jared

I don’t think Raycroft has earned the #1 spot but I do feel he is making improvements. Start him in a good 5 games in a row and see what happens.

Jared

I don’t think Raycroft has earned the #1 spot but I do feel he is making improvements. Start him in a good 5 games in a row and see what happens.

Todd

I don’t think there is such a thing as a “#1 goalie” on this team. Neither goalie is that much better than the other, so I’d go with whoever is winning.

So how do Tony and Frankie G. justify Arnason’s roster spot? I’ve never been one to bash players, but c’mon. The numbers speak for themselves. I realize that they’re a little thin in the middle right now, but if he hasn’t lived up to his potential by now, I doubt he ever will. Do they have a Jeff Hackett for centers that we don’t know about?

Todd

I don’t think there is such a thing as a “#1 goalie” on this team. Neither goalie is that much better than the other, so I’d go with whoever is winning.

So how do Tony and Frankie G. justify Arnason’s roster spot? I’ve never been one to bash players, but c’mon. The numbers speak for themselves. I realize that they’re a little thin in the middle right now, but if he hasn’t lived up to his potential by now, I doubt he ever will. Do they have a Jeff Hackett for centers that we don’t know about?

Gurn Blanston

No #1 status for either. Ride the hot hand and keep them both fresh.

Ian

Razor
The team seems to play better in front of him? But we could play Boods and go after JT!!!!!!!!!!!

Gurn Blanston

No #1 status for either. Ride the hot hand and keep them both fresh.

Ian

Razor
The team seems to play better in front of him? But we could play Boods and go after JT!!!!!!!!!!!

Dario

Razor won a gimme against Nashville (the worst scoring team in the NHL of late and on a five game losing streak) but that game last night against Chicago was no joke.

You would think that Budaj would just be fired up to play against Q and the way he was used the last three years. When he laid an egg against Chicago I think Granato didn’t trust him to go against Chicago again.

Budaj is the more reliable goalie at this point but that margin is getting real thin and if Raycroft is hot then Granato should probably ride him.

Jeff Hacket is the goalie whisperer. He’s been unbelievably good with rehabing previous great goaltenders. I’d like to see what he could do with a young, raw guy.

Dario

Razor won a gimme against Nashville (the worst scoring team in the NHL of late and on a five game losing streak) but that game last night against Chicago was no joke.

You would think that Budaj would just be fired up to play against Q and the way he was used the last three years. When he laid an egg against Chicago I think Granato didn’t trust him to go against Chicago again.

Budaj is the more reliable goalie at this point but that margin is getting real thin and if Raycroft is hot then Granato should probably ride him.

Jeff Hacket is the goalie whisperer. He’s been unbelievably good with rehabing previous great goaltenders. I’d like to see what he could do with a young, raw guy.

Travis

I agree with Todd. Whoever is winning gets the start.

Raycroft should play the next game and Budaj should play the game after that. Whoever plays better gets the next one.

Travis

I agree with Todd. Whoever is winning gets the start.

Raycroft should play the next game and Budaj should play the game after that. Whoever plays better gets the next one.

Nic

Go with Rayzor on Saturday. If he loses, go back to him to see how he rebounds. If he wins, then he’s the clear cut #1 I believe.

Nic

Go with Rayzor on Saturday. If he loses, go back to him to see how he rebounds. If he wins, then he’s the clear cut #1 I believe.

Greg

Guite is sick, what’s up A.D.? How sick is he? He has missed some games
I’ve been a Budaj fan for quite some time, however his play this year isn’t what it was the last two years. I don’t have a problem with Raycroft. I feel he has had some lucky bounces, stuff that didn’t go in. I really just want the Avs to win, so Raycroft is fine.
I’m not sure about Hackett being “the goalie whisperer”. What’s he doing with Budaj?? I watch a lot of Capital games and I am not happy that Three-or-four went there. He still sucks-on-ice. He only has a decent win record because the Caps put a lot of goals up. his GAA and Save pct. still aren’t very good. Glad he’s gone

Greg

Guite is sick, what’s up A.D.? How sick is he? He has missed some games
I’ve been a Budaj fan for quite some time, however his play this year isn’t what it was the last two years. I don’t have a problem with Raycroft. I feel he has had some lucky bounces, stuff that didn’t go in. I really just want the Avs to win, so Raycroft is fine.
I’m not sure about Hackett being “the goalie whisperer”. What’s he doing with Budaj?? I watch a lot of Capital games and I am not happy that Three-or-four went there. He still sucks-on-ice. He only has a decent win record because the Caps put a lot of goals up. his GAA and Save pct. still aren’t very good. Glad he’s gone

filmar

You play the Razzor no question, its not even a close decision anymore, not that it realy ever was, its just some people were in love with “Boods” and it effected their common sense!! At this point if you dont give the ball to the Razzor watch what happens with the players in their effort, they dont want the guy in net that cant win a game, they want the guy who wins everytime he plays!

BRAD

Of course he should be the starter. How many chances has Budaj been given? Give Raycroft a chance to play consistently, at least 4-5 games to see how he handles it. There’s been a lot of complaining about his GAA and S%, but the fact is he only has one loss. Whatever the reason the team plays better in front of him. I’d rather have a goalie who gets the wins and has crappy stats as opposed to a goalie who has good stats but still doesn’t get wins, because the W is really the only one that counts.

filmar

You play the Razzor no question, its not even a close decision anymore, not that it realy ever was, its just some people were in love with “Boods” and it effected their common sense!! At this point if you dont give the ball to the Razzor watch what happens with the players in their effort, they dont want the guy in net that cant win a game, they want the guy who wins everytime he plays!

BRAD

Of course he should be the starter. How many chances has Budaj been given? Give Raycroft a chance to play consistently, at least 4-5 games to see how he handles it. There’s been a lot of complaining about his GAA and S%, but the fact is he only has one loss. Whatever the reason the team plays better in front of him. I’d rather have a goalie who gets the wins and has crappy stats as opposed to a goalie who has good stats but still doesn’t get wins, because the W is really the only one that counts.

Logan D

I dont think it matters all that much which goalie we start if the team comes out and plays the type of game I saw tonight against the hawks. I think boods has just been the victim of bad team play most nights. But we have to ride Raycroft for now I mean the guy doesn’t lose?

Logan D

I dont think it matters all that much which goalie we start if the team comes out and plays the type of game I saw tonight against the hawks. I think boods has just been the victim of bad team play most nights. But we have to ride Raycroft for now I mean the guy doesn’t lose?

Exiled Avs Fan

While I don’t think either Razor or Budaj are number 1 NHL goalies; Andrew sure seems more confident in goal right now and he has earned another start; I am not sure were the goalie thing is heading; but won’t Chicago need another defenseman at the deadline? And with the Hawks having two really good goalies…maybe, just maybe, we can get a decent netminder for the run.

Exiled Avs Fan

While I don’t think either Razor or Budaj are number 1 NHL goalies; Andrew sure seems more confident in goal right now and he has earned another start; I am not sure were the goalie thing is heading; but won’t Chicago need another defenseman at the deadline? And with the Hawks having two really good goalies…maybe, just maybe, we can get a decent netminder for the run.

Jacyln

I generally don’t like goalie flip flopping but how can you not play a goalie who has a 8-1 record? But I’d like to see a decision made, if they are going to let Rayzor be the guy then don’t yank him if he can’t beat Pittsburgh, at least test it out for a few weeks.

Horray for Wolski at center, at least he’s scoring. I agree with everyone that it seems like a great fit and hopefully he can stay in the position.

And finally, I’ve always wondered who gets to make the music decisions at games? You may not like the music the Avs play being a modern hard rock fan myself I enjoy it and get a lot ideas from what they play there. The Avs music is a lot better than the hip hop and rap they play at the Broncos games and the old people’s soft classic rock at the Rockies games.

Jacyln

I generally don’t like goalie flip flopping but how can you not play a goalie who has a 8-1 record? But I’d like to see a decision made, if they are going to let Rayzor be the guy then don’t yank him if he can’t beat Pittsburgh, at least test it out for a few weeks.

Horray for Wolski at center, at least he’s scoring. I agree with everyone that it seems like a great fit and hopefully he can stay in the position.

And finally, I’ve always wondered who gets to make the music decisions at games? You may not like the music the Avs play being a modern hard rock fan myself I enjoy it and get a lot ideas from what they play there. The Avs music is a lot better than the hip hop and rap they play at the Broncos games and the old people’s soft classic rock at the Rockies games.

Aaron

Rayzor. He’s winning. Play him. Plain and simple. An 8-1 record and 43 saves against one of the best teams in the league speaks for itself in my opinion.

Aaron

Rayzor. He’s winning. Play him. Plain and simple. An 8-1 record and 43 saves against one of the best teams in the league speaks for itself in my opinion.

Brett

Personally, I’d like to see Boods get back to his winning ways. However it seems that his success is tied to the team’s lack of. I cannot for the life of me understand why Coach Q DESTROYS any and all young goaltenders he has. He’s notorious for neglecting the position throughout his career and now we’re left to pick up the pieces.

Rayzor deserves the start, and has seen more of the Crosbys than Budaj has I’m certain. Makes more sense that a former Eastern goalie would face an Eastern team. The fact that he’s hot right now, just solidifies the decision.

Arnason has been struggling to say the least. Maybe an extended scratch is in order. Bring back Guite to the line-up and let him work a bit. The guys that I’m seriously disappointed in are Hensick and Jones for sure. They seem to be stuck in 3rd gear or something. Not really thinking things through, and that will come with more experience I’m certain. Here’s hoping they can break out soon and help this team.

But all in all, this season is pretty much lost. Focus on the things that you can, and don’t make any stupid moves or trades to jeopardize the future. This team won’t quit and I’m not suggesting it, but face the facts and work on the things that can better the team in the long run–not some pipe dream of dominating in the playoffs THIS year.

D L

Forget the 80 bucks for a Homedics massage pad. With Joe’s money, he should be paying a busty, blonde Swedish woman named Vendela or Annika or something to come rub his back. Maybe she’d even clear the driveway when she’s done with him.

Brett

Personally, I’d like to see Boods get back to his winning ways. However it seems that his success is tied to the team’s lack of. I cannot for the life of me understand why Coach Q DESTROYS any and all young goaltenders he has. He’s notorious for neglecting the position throughout his career and now we’re left to pick up the pieces.

Rayzor deserves the start, and has seen more of the Crosbys than Budaj has I’m certain. Makes more sense that a former Eastern goalie would face an Eastern team. The fact that he’s hot right now, just solidifies the decision.

Arnason has been struggling to say the least. Maybe an extended scratch is in order. Bring back Guite to the line-up and let him work a bit. The guys that I’m seriously disappointed in are Hensick and Jones for sure. They seem to be stuck in 3rd gear or something. Not really thinking things through, and that will come with more experience I’m certain. Here’s hoping they can break out soon and help this team.

But all in all, this season is pretty much lost. Focus on the things that you can, and don’t make any stupid moves or trades to jeopardize the future. This team won’t quit and I’m not suggesting it, but face the facts and work on the things that can better the team in the long run–not some pipe dream of dominating in the playoffs THIS year.

D L

Forget the 80 bucks for a Homedics massage pad. With Joe’s money, he should be paying a busty, blonde Swedish woman named Vendela or Annika or something to come rub his back. Maybe she’d even clear the driveway when she’s done with him.

We’ve seen the Avs win a few games in a row before, only to lose the next few. I’m not being negative, just realistic. We’ll see how the team looks ten games from now.

As for which goalie should play, I’m not going to repeat the same comments I’ve been saying all year.

The top line is hot, Raycroft looked good last night, but one line and a decent goalie do not a Cup contender make.

al

We’ve seen the Avs win a few games in a row before, only to lose the next few. I’m not being negative, just realistic. We’ll see how the team looks ten games from now.

As for which goalie should play, I’m not going to repeat the same comments I’ve been saying all year.

The top line is hot, Raycroft looked good last night, but one line and a decent goalie do not a Cup contender make.

Hammer

The results are the results, as Bertuzzi may say.

Raycroft is the worst goalie I’ve ever seen, but the luckiest, too. The rebounds, being out of position, a shot across the crease just missing his skate for a goal. Of course, Clark was playing part-time goalie, too. Even lazy Hannan stepped up his game.

So, the team plays better because they know The Sieve is in goal. They win games with him in goal. I suppose that’s the bottom line.

Let him start. See how long the team keeps up the pace of play to get the wins. If that’s what it takes for wins, so be it.

– Loved the phone call. Too bad the “entertainment” at Pepsi Center has become very lame.

– Arnason equals worthless.

– Wolski is outstanding in his new role. Quenneville may have gotten an education last night about changing palyer’s positions. A well deserved loss just because of keeping Wolski caged.

– Hensick. Pushing it too hard.

– Stewart. Always works hard, every shift, every game. Good things will come with him on the ice.

– As Quenneville called it, a homer puck drop, was true. The Hawk was in the circle, about five feet away when the puck dropped. Maybe they were warned about stalling. Don’t know, but I can understand Q’s “position.”

Had we lost last night, I would have walked away fairly happy. The team played hard, and that’s all I expect. Even if it takes Raycroft in goal every game.

Hammer

The results are the results, as Bertuzzi may say.

Raycroft is the worst goalie I’ve ever seen, but the luckiest, too. The rebounds, being out of position, a shot across the crease just missing his skate for a goal. Of course, Clark was playing part-time goalie, too. Even lazy Hannan stepped up his game.

So, the team plays better because they know The Sieve is in goal. They win games with him in goal. I suppose that’s the bottom line.

Let him start. See how long the team keeps up the pace of play to get the wins. If that’s what it takes for wins, so be it.

– Loved the phone call. Too bad the “entertainment” at Pepsi Center has become very lame.

– Arnason equals worthless.

– Wolski is outstanding in his new role. Quenneville may have gotten an education last night about changing palyer’s positions. A well deserved loss just because of keeping Wolski caged.

– Hensick. Pushing it too hard.

– Stewart. Always works hard, every shift, every game. Good things will come with him on the ice.

– As Quenneville called it, a homer puck drop, was true. The Hawk was in the circle, about five feet away when the puck dropped. Maybe they were warned about stalling. Don’t know, but I can understand Q’s “position.”

Had we lost last night, I would have walked away fairly happy. The team played hard, and that’s all I expect. Even if it takes Raycroft in goal every game.

STB

Play Raycroft! Leave the human rebound machine on the bench until the shootout. Rebounds in the shootout don’t hurt!

STB

Play Raycroft! Leave the human rebound machine on the bench until the shootout. Rebounds in the shootout don’t hurt!

JW

i said it here earlier: if raycroft is hot, ride him. if budaj is hot, ride him. maby than we can put together a team that can hang in there untill those injured players get back and than get into the 7th or 8th seed. ill pray for that!

JW

i said it here earlier: if raycroft is hot, ride him. if budaj is hot, ride him. maby than we can put together a team that can hang in there untill those injured players get back and than get into the 7th or 8th seed. ill pray for that!

PF

For the people crushing Budaj…..for goodness sake open your eyes. He is not the worst goalie in the NHL, there are not 30 better goalies in the NHL. He is, on balance, a decent goalie. In my judgement, he has performed slightly above my expectations for this year. He’s been about 2/3rds fairly good games, 1/3 fairly bad games. That is one of the several reasons the Avs are a squarely .500 team. For the moment, let’s not forget that one of the main reasons we are slightly above .500 is the shootout wizard Wolski. There’s no question that Raycroft is clicking and his record does seem to indicate that the team is playing well when he’s in there. He’s a much better puck handler, but otherwise it doesn’t look to me like he’s head and shoulders more talented than Budaj. I think this is a situation where they’ll both be better if they have the pressure (and relief) of having someone else competing for playing time. I’ll bet that if Raycroft gets three games in a row, and Budaj gets the next one, he’ll play well. If the Avs give Razor the #1 mantle, I’ll bet he has a cold streak. This isn’t going to be an easy, clear cut decision because the team is mediocre and so both goalies are going to be tested enough that they’ll get exposed sometimes.

PF

For the people crushing Budaj…..for goodness sake open your eyes. He is not the worst goalie in the NHL, there are not 30 better goalies in the NHL. He is, on balance, a decent goalie. In my judgement, he has performed slightly above my expectations for this year. He’s been about 2/3rds fairly good games, 1/3 fairly bad games. That is one of the several reasons the Avs are a squarely .500 team. For the moment, let’s not forget that one of the main reasons we are slightly above .500 is the shootout wizard Wolski. There’s no question that Raycroft is clicking and his record does seem to indicate that the team is playing well when he’s in there. He’s a much better puck handler, but otherwise it doesn’t look to me like he’s head and shoulders more talented than Budaj. I think this is a situation where they’ll both be better if they have the pressure (and relief) of having someone else competing for playing time. I’ll bet that if Raycroft gets three games in a row, and Budaj gets the next one, he’ll play well. If the Avs give Razor the #1 mantle, I’ll bet he has a cold streak. This isn’t going to be an easy, clear cut decision because the team is mediocre and so both goalies are going to be tested enough that they’ll get exposed sometimes.

Adrian Dater

I think Boods will certainly get another chance to prove himself.

Adrian Dater

Then again, you never know where he’ll get that next chance…

Adrian Dater

I think Boods will certainly get another chance to prove himself.

Adrian Dater

Then again, you never know where he’ll get that next chance…

andy

now hold on one minute…guite is sick? has he caught the bird flu? or perhaps a rare african sickness that prevents a center from playing when the team’s top two centermen are out? sakic and stats are out, and he’s sick?! is anyone else bothered by this, or am i overreacting?

andy

now hold on one minute…guite is sick? has he caught the bird flu? or perhaps a rare african sickness that prevents a center from playing when the team’s top two centermen are out? sakic and stats are out, and he’s sick?! is anyone else bothered by this, or am i overreacting?

andy

oh, perhaps i should read the other comments

andy

oh, perhaps i should read the other comments

PF

Hmmmm, was that a bit of a teaser?

PF

Hmmmm, was that a bit of a teaser?

Exiled Avs Fan

AD; will the Hawks keep both goalies all year or will the be looking for something at the deadline. If its D thye need; will the Avs make a deal?

Exiled Avs Fan

AD; will the Hawks keep both goalies all year or will the be looking for something at the deadline. If its D thye need; will the Avs make a deal?

mrhockeyluke

How about Jeff Hackett as the starting goalie with Jaques CLoutier as the backup????

mrhockeyluke

How about Jeff Hackett as the starting goalie with Jaques CLoutier as the backup????

filmar

“For the people crushing Budaj…..for goodness sake open your eyes. He is not the worst goalie in the NHL, there are not 30 better goalies in the NHL.”

To the person who wrote this…. Yes he is the worst number 1 G man in the NHL. Its not even close! Name me a team who would trade their number 1 for ” Boods” If there is a team willing to do that the Avs should make that deal NOW!

filmar

“For the people crushing Budaj…..for goodness sake open your eyes. He is not the worst goalie in the NHL, there are not 30 better goalies in the NHL.”

To the person who wrote this…. Yes he is the worst number 1 G man in the NHL. Its not even close! Name me a team who would trade their number 1 for ” Boods” If there is a team willing to do that the Avs should make that deal NOW!

Americanario

In a normal world, I would take Budaj over Raycroft any day. Budaj is much better in almost every goalie ability except maybe stick handling. Raycroft’s saves often look spectacular because he is so badly out of position, and he flops around almost as much as Hasek did.

But the Avalanche world isn’t a normal world and for some reason the Avs have played better in front of Raycroft on most nights. He is getting the lucky bounces in his favor, the posts seem to be in his pocket and it is all adding up to wins. I wonder if he has incriminating pictures of the rest of the team and is blackmailing them to play like this in front of him?

Americanario

In a normal world, I would take Budaj over Raycroft any day. Budaj is much better in almost every goalie ability except maybe stick handling. Raycroft’s saves often look spectacular because he is so badly out of position, and he flops around almost as much as Hasek did.

But the Avalanche world isn’t a normal world and for some reason the Avs have played better in front of Raycroft on most nights. He is getting the lucky bounces in his favor, the posts seem to be in his pocket and it is all adding up to wins. I wonder if he has incriminating pictures of the rest of the team and is blackmailing them to play like this in front of him?

Mike1969

Gotta ride the HOT goalie. Rayzor should start until he is no longer hot and we are no longer winning. When Stastny, Sakic, and Forsberg are all healthy, Wolski can Center the 4th line..wow, talk about depth!

Cmon Adrian, we know you love the Hair Metal. You almost went to ACDC and just sat through 4 hours of 100 greatest Hard Rock Songs.. You seem obsessed with trashing the best decade of music ever. What’s up with that? Also The Can plays metal all the time but when it’s time for the “Coors Light Jukebox” the choices are always lame, What’s up with that?

Mike1969

Gotta ride the HOT goalie. Rayzor should start until he is no longer hot and we are no longer winning. When Stastny, Sakic, and Forsberg are all healthy, Wolski can Center the 4th line..wow, talk about depth!

Cmon Adrian, we know you love the Hair Metal. You almost went to ACDC and just sat through 4 hours of 100 greatest Hard Rock Songs.. You seem obsessed with trashing the best decade of music ever. What’s up with that? Also The Can plays metal all the time but when it’s time for the “Coors Light Jukebox” the choices are always lame, What’s up with that?

Jeru1975

Was at the game and that “Call To Toronto” skit had me rollin’!!! Could’ve been a little alcohol-influenced but it was great!! Haven’t seen anything that funny at an Avs game since they used to put the opposing players on the “Kiss Cam” or stage a skit when a player went into the box.

I miss those old tidbits you used to get at an Avs game. The Braveheart speech before a PP or the dancing guy during the Cotton-Eyed Joe song. Definitely less filler nowadays. I know, I know, we go to see hockey but those intermissions can sure get a little long and I grow weary of the mighty mites!!

Jeru1975

Was at the game and that “Call To Toronto” skit had me rollin’!!! Could’ve been a little alcohol-influenced but it was great!! Haven’t seen anything that funny at an Avs game since they used to put the opposing players on the “Kiss Cam” or stage a skit when a player went into the box.

I miss those old tidbits you used to get at an Avs game. The Braveheart speech before a PP or the dancing guy during the Cotton-Eyed Joe song. Definitely less filler nowadays. I know, I know, we go to see hockey but those intermissions can sure get a little long and I grow weary of the mighty mites!!

Adrian Dater

They don’t do movie clips anymore because Hollywood got its knickers in a wad over payment for them. Geez, as if the free publicity of them showing wasn’t worth enough.

Adrian Dater

They don’t do movie clips anymore because Hollywood got its knickers in a wad over payment for them. Geez, as if the free publicity of them showing wasn’t worth enough.

Megan

I will admit, I was a big defender of Boods in the early going of this season. His mediocre (at best) play and the play of Raycroft throughout the season has totally changed my mind.

You have Boods, your supposed no. 1, who plays night in and night out, has how many wins and how many losses? Not sure of the exact numbers, but I know he’s got more losses than wins, and doesn’t even own a .500 winning percentage. And then you have Raycroft, who plays only about every 10-15 games or so, and he’s now 8-1 with 7 wins in his last 7 starts.

So who, really, has earned the net? Not Budaj.

I won’t put the Avs’ place in the standings totally on Boods, but when you’re a no. 1 goalie at the NHL level, the fans and your organization need (and deserve) more than sub-par goaltending, and I think we’ll get that from Raycroft down the road.

Tony Granato can’t afford to keep playing Boods.

Megan

I will admit, I was a big defender of Boods in the early going of this season. His mediocre (at best) play and the play of Raycroft throughout the season has totally changed my mind.

You have Boods, your supposed no. 1, who plays night in and night out, has how many wins and how many losses? Not sure of the exact numbers, but I know he’s got more losses than wins, and doesn’t even own a .500 winning percentage. And then you have Raycroft, who plays only about every 10-15 games or so, and he’s now 8-1 with 7 wins in his last 7 starts.

So who, really, has earned the net? Not Budaj.

I won’t put the Avs’ place in the standings totally on Boods, but when you’re a no. 1 goalie at the NHL level, the fans and your organization need (and deserve) more than sub-par goaltending, and I think we’ll get that from Raycroft down the road.

Terry Frei graduated from Wheat Ridge High School in the Denver area and has degrees in history and journalism from the University of Colorado-Boulder. He worked for the Rocky Mountain News while attending CU and joined the Post staff after graduation. He has also worked at the Oregonian in Portland, Ore., and The Sporting News. His seventh book, March 1939: Before the Madness, was issued in February 2014.

Chambers covers college and professional hockey for The Denver Post. He has written for the Post since 1994, after dumping his first 9-to-5 office job a couple years out of college. He primarily follows the University of Denver hockey team and helps cover the Avalanche.